Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân

Biography

Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân, also known as Saint Peter Ðoàn Vân Vân, was a layman catechist in the Apostolic Vicariate of West Tonkin, which is now modern-day Vietnam. He was born around the year 1780 in Ke Bói, Hà Nam, Vietnam.

Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân devoted his life to spreading the teachings of the Catholic faith in a time of intense persecution. During the reign of Emperor Tự Đức, who sought to eliminate Christianity from Vietnam, Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân remained steadfast in his belief.

Despite the dangers he faced, Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân continued to catechize and support the Catholic community in West Tonkin. His unwavering faith and commitment to the Gospel inspired those around him.

Unfortunately, his faithfulness to the Catholic Church ultimately led to his martyrdom. On May 25, 1857, in Son Tây, Ha Tay, Vietnam, Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân was martyred for his refusal to renounce his Christian beliefs.

Recognizing his sacrifice and his status as a martyr, Pope Pius X declared Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân venerable on August 2, 1908, issuing a decree of martyrdom. Following this recognition, he was beatified by Pope Pius X on May 2, 1909.

The canonization of Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân took place on June 19, 1988, under the pontificate of Pope John Paul II. He was recognized as a saint for his unwavering faith, dedication to evangelization, and his courageous stance in the face of persecution.

Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân is honored and venerated as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam. His feast day is celebrated on May 25, and he is also commemorated on November 24 as part of the larger group of Vietnamese Martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their Catholic faith.

Saint Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân serves as an inspiration for Catholics around the world, reminding us of the importance of steadfastness in the face of adversity and the power of faith to overcome obstacles.